How to Talk To and Direct a Nude Model

Nude photography entails more than just photographic technique. There is a huge interpersonal element, much more so than in any other kind of people photography. There are many articles on the photographic technique of nude photography, but herein I will address how to talk to a nude model. By learning these verbal techniques, you should be able to direct the action from behind your camera just like an expert.

Gymnastic

Begin by introducing yourself or greeting the model if you’ve already met.

Don’t be nervous, it’s contagious. The more natural you are, the better everything will go. Act as if you’ve done it a thousand times – even if you haven’t. Don’t be overly chatty or bold, just keep working.

During the photo shoot, avoid physical contact with the models during posing; it is much more efficient to stay behind your camera and use verbal direction. Touching models can also come off as creepy. New models need to learn to follow verbal direction, and new photographers need to learn how to give verbal direction.

Be professional. Whenever possible, use neutral terms instead of slang for body parts. If you want the model to turn her chest towards you, refer to her chest — not any of the popular vernacular terms for breasts. What you don’t say is as important as what you do say.

One effective technique of verbal direction is to mention a body part and simply describe what the model needs to do to achieve the exact, desired pose.

Keep verbal directions simple and clear. For example, it’s easy to say, “Place your right hand on your right hip, then move your right foot a few inches to your right.”

Once the model has achieved the basic pose, suggest specific, clear refinements as needed in order to perfect the pose. Your choice of approach will be a personal one, but I tend to tell rather than ask. Phrasing instructions as questions can make you seem less experienced and less professional. By making clear and concise statements, you’ll keep the shoot moving with the poses you want and without any confusion.